January 2, 2013

Illinois lawmakers are expected to begin the debate and possibly vote on the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act anytime between now and Jan. 8.

NOW leaders in Illinois are reporting that we are on the verge of winning this historic vote. It is imperative that your state senator and representative hear from you TODAY!

1. CALL, CALL, CALL – Please call your state senator and representative and urge them to vote YES on the marriage bill! If you are unsure who your legislators are, please call the State Board of Elections Springfield office at 217-782-4141.

2. Send an email - Urge your legislator to support the marriage bill and add why YOU support the freedom to marry in Illinois.

SAMPLE SCRIPT

"Hello. My name is _______ and I am calling to speak with Representative/Senator ______ about the marriage equality bill. Is she/he available?

"I strongly support marriage equality and urge you (or the Representative/Senator) to vote YES on the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act.

"I believe it is unfair and unjust to deny families and couples the legal protections and dignities they deserve based on sexual orientation. Additionally, marriage strengthens relationships, fosters stability and makes families stronger. Like all Illinoisans, same-sex couples have the same values of love, commitment and the desire to build strong families. Please vote YES for marriage equality. Thank you."

Please share this message with your family and friends, and ask them to call and email as well.

Thank you for taking the time to make history in Illinois!

NOW has long supported marriage equality and is thrilled that Illinois may build on the momentum that recently added Maine, Maryland and Washington to states that legalized marriage equality. They made recognition of lifetime commitments and legal protections for same-sex couples and their families a reality, and Illinois can too!